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Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are tumors of the GI tract derived from mesenchymal precursor cells in the gut wall. They result from mutations of a growth factor receptor gene, CKIT. Some are caused by previous radiation therapy to the abdomen for other tumors.

Tumors are slow growing, and malignant potential varies from minimal to significant. Most (60 to 70%) occur in the stomach, 20 to 25% in the small bowel, and a small number in the esophagus, colon, and rectum. Average age at presentation is 50 to 60.

Symptoms vary with location but include bleeding, dyspepsia, and obstruction. Diagnosis is usually by endoscopy, with biopsy and endoscopic ultrasound for staging. Treatment is surgical removal. The role of radiation and chemotherapy is unclear, but the tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib Some Trade Names
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has been beneficial.

Last full review/revision December 2007 by Elliot M. Livstone, MD

Content last modified December 2007